Two parties interested in Algoma lighthouse

by Fox 11 News

File photo. (U.S. Lighthouse Society)

The federal government received two applications from organizations interested in taking ownership of the Algoma Pierhead Light.

Two months ago, the federal General Services Administration announced it was looking for what it calls "stewards" of several lighthouses, including the one in Algoma. The new owners would be responsible for maintenance and upkeep, while the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers would continue to operate the light itself.

Two letters of interest were submitted by Tuesday's deadline, according to Patrick Sclafini, a GSA spokesman.

He would not disclose the identity of the two groups. However, the city of Algoma has confirmed to Fox 11 it was one of the applicants.

The next step is an inspection tour of 48-foot-tall structure for the prospective owners, likely next month. After that, the interested parties would have to finalize their applications, Sclafani said.

At this stage, only state or local governments, non-profit corporations, historic preservation groups or community development organizations can apply to take ownership. If no deal is struck, the federal government would auction the property.

The Manitowoc lighthouse was sold in 2010 to a New York man for $30,000.

Across the country, more than 100 lighthouses have been divested by the federal government, with 68 transferred at no cost to preservationists, and 36 sold by auction to the public.